Finding ski holidays in Europe with a vast range of slopes, A-grade hotels and throbbing apres-ski scenes is a bit of a minefield. But landing the perfect trip needn’t be an uphill battle – we’ve pounded the powder and rounded up the continent’s ski havens.

1. Wengen Ski Resort: Wengen, Switzerland

Image source: Bellevue des Alpes

It’s always been much-lauded for its gawp-worthy ski scenery – but the slopes of Wengen make Switzerland irresistible. Take village charm, friendly locals and powerful mountain scenery and it’s easy to see why skiers fall in love with the place. There are plenty of gentle runs and a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere, making it ideal for families and leisurely groups.

Where to stay: You won’t see the peaks so beautifully framed as from Bellevue des Alpes. The historic hotel and restaurant is a true 19th-century gem, steeped in stories from the past yet brought bang up to date with modern luxury. You might feel like you’ve been here before – that’s because the hotel is also famous for being the filming location for ‘The Eiger Sanction’ starring Clint Eastwood and ‘North Face’ with Benno Furmann.

2. Kronplatz: South Tyrol, Italy

Image source: Kronplatz

A mountain mutiny, Kronplatz is an exception to the usual rough and rugged Dolomite terrain. It’s like a smooth cone, a poster boy for the perfect slope – as if purposely sculpted for adrenaline-pumping skiing. Fast long pistes provide thrill-seekers with the ultimate descent, while beginners can cruise at their own pace on gentler slopes. Gondolas zig-zig about the place and the state-of-the-art lift system is wonderfully efficient – this is definitely Italy’s best-kept ski secret.

Where to stay: After a day hurtling down the mighty mountain, linger in a herbal bath, warm up in the sauna or enjoy a recharging treatment at Hotel Alte Goste. Book in for the weekend and soak up the Dolomites from your very own bedroom in this charming hideaway, first mentioned in a document in 1142.

3. Voss Resort: Voss, Norway

Image source: Store Ringheim

One of the largest ski resorts in western Norway, Voss Resort will have you smitten with its groomed slopes. First-timers can practice their first turns while experienced skiers can enjoy a cross-country challenge. The ski school coaches are dab hands at breaking beginners in and the dazzling weekend apres-ski will soon have them dancing on the tables.

Where to stay: Make your ski holiday extra special by staying at the ultra-cosy Store Ringheim. Just 2km from the resort, it’s a tranquil dose of farmhouse life in buildings dating back to the 18th century.

4. Furtschellas: Sils-Maria, Switzerland

Image source: Hotel Waldhaus Sils

As you glide up the mountain in a cable car, gazing over Lake Sils sparkling in the winter sun, you’ll feel completely and utterly liberated. It’s the smackings of nature paired with perfectly groomed slopes and the village charm of Sils that have skiers returning to the snowy paradise of Furtschellas ski resort year after year.

Where to stay: Switch off from reality and lose yourself in the timeless and enchanting energy of Hotel Waldhaus Sils. A true legend, this iconic hotel has played host to everyone from David Bowie to Neville Chamberlain – culture is in its genes. Choose from three styles of room: classic, modern and nostalgic. Whichever you plump for, you’ll have views to die for.

5. Ski Sunne: Värmland, Sweden

Don’t panic if you’ve never done it before – any reasonably fit person can enjoy ski holidays in Europe. Ski Sunne makes it easy for all levels, with nine slopes of varying difficulty (starting at very easy). There’s plenty for kids and a buzzing apres-ski Saturday, with performances and a music quiz and a mouthwatering pizza menu.

Where to stay: Nearby is Ulvsby Mansion: a manor house, listed building and stunning hotel that dates back to before 1540 and has been in the same family since 1914.

6. Laax: Flims, Switzerland

Image source: Schweizerhof Flims Romantik Hotel

The Telegraph descripe this Alpine resort and beautiful Laax ski area as “skiing’s best-kept secret”, eschewing the grandness of the Zermatt Matterhorn for a more low-key, local village feel with lower slopes.

Where to stay: Just a short drift from Schweizerhof Flims Romantik Hotel, you can combine your ski trip with a stay in a fairytale hideaway. The likes of Einstein, Empress Zita and Marie Curie have all checked in here – so you’re in good company.